WHAT I’M DRINKING

Lightening my lockdown this month are a natural wine, a stunning vermouth and a spicy Portuguese tipple.

Known Unknown 2020 Bridge Pa Midnight Viognier, New Zealand

Golden hues with aromas of preserved flowers, peaches and apricots. A distinctive botanicals scent package accentuates a mineral quality. Satin texture with flavours of flowers and apricots, mandarin citrus and gentle fruit spice layers. Moderate acidity with a persistent core of flavour and fine fruit tannins. Ready to drink from 2021 through 2024. RRP $30. known

unknownwine.com

Gonzalez Byass La Copa Rojo Jerez Vermouth

Sipping it straight over ice or as an ingredient in a cocktail, vermouth must provide the right balance of bitterness over sweetness, just enough red fruit flavour and spice to bring the balance to a drink, delivery on the palate and finish clean. Fabulous in a negroni, vermouth can be red or white, is a fortified wine beverage usually around 15.5% abv and must contain wormwood.

RRP $33.95. moorewilsons.co.nz

Antonio Madeira Vinhas Velhas 2017, Dao, Portugal

This field blend made with Jaen, Baga, Tinta Amarela and others showcases aromas of wild dark red berries, sweet fresh meats and forest floor. A core of fruit and mineral, warming alcohol, moderate acidity and vibrant tannins. Fruit flavours mirror the bouquet while earth flavours suggest clay and chalk. Best drinking from 2023 through 2033+ with food. Decant for service. RRP $70. dtfwines.com